Lafayette Park Renovation News – San Francisco Recreation and Parkhttps://sfrecpark.org
Get out and play!Mon, 21 Jan 2019 16:35:45 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=5.0.3Lafayette Park DPA soft-Opening Wednesday, 11/25/14https://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-dpa-soft-opening-wednesday-112514/
Wed, 26 Nov 2014 00:50:00 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=80894Fences will be removed on Wednesday, 11/25, providing the public access to the 7,000 square feet of newly installed dog play area synthetic turf. The eastern end of the DPA will remain closed until early January to allow the natural grass to regenerate. In the meantime, the temporary off-leash area located along Laguna Street will continue to be … Continue reading →]]>

Fences will be removed on Wednesday, 11/25, providing the public access to the 7,000 square feet of newly installed dog play area synthetic turf. The eastern end of the DPA will remain closed until early January to allow the natural grass to regenerate. In the meantime, the temporary off-leash area located along Laguna Street will continue to be open to park users and their off-leash pooches.

]]>Lafayette Park DPA Construction Work Begins Monday, 11/03/14https://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-dpa-construction-work-begins-monday-110314/
Fri, 31 Oct 2014 19:16:53 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=79205Please be advised that the Off-Leash Dog Play Area will be closed for renovation beginning Monday, November 3. During construction, people who wish to walk their dogs off-leash may utilize the lawn area adjacent to Laguna Street. Your patience and cooperation is greatly appreciated. The area closest to the drinking fountain and … Continue reading →]]>

Please be advised that the Off-Leash Dog Play Area will be closed for renovation beginning Monday, November 3. During construction, people who wish to walk their dogs off-leash may utilize the lawn area adjacent to Laguna Street.

Your patience and cooperation is greatly appreciated.

The area closest to the drinking fountain and surrounding area will be replaced with synthetic turf that contains a sand fill for increased drainage.

]]>LAFAYETTE PARK DOG PLAY AREA PILOT PROJECThttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-dog-play-area-pilot-project/
Thu, 09 Oct 2014 23:53:47 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=78939NOTICE OF UPCOMING CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES The Recreation and Parks Department will be performing maintenance work within the Lafayette Park Designated Dog Play Area (DPA) during November and December of this year. In order to address sever deterioration of the play area turf, RPD will be installing synthetic grass specially design … Continue reading →]]>

NOTICE OF UPCOMING CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

The Recreation and Parks Department will be performing maintenance work within the Lafayette Park Designated Dog Play Area (DPA) during November and December of this year. In order to address sever deterioration of the play area turf, RPD will be installing synthetic grass specially design for dog play areas within a portion of the DPA. The natural grass in the balance of the DPA will be re-seeded and rested. In approximately one year, RPD will seek public input on the pilot installation and may make adjustments based on that feedback.

TENTATIVE PROJECT SCHEDULE

November 3: Designated Dog Play Area will be closed to the public; Temporary DPA opens on Laguna Street.

December 1: New Turf DPA area reopens to the public; Temp DPA closes; Natural Grass DPA area remains closed for plant establishment.

Join Mayor Edwin M. Lee, District 2 Supervisor Mark Farrell, Friends of Lafayette Park, the Department of Public Works and the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department for a grand re-opening event. Children’s Play Day & Activities beginning at 10 am, Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 11 am. Bring a picnic and enjoy the bluegrass sounds of Neil Robinson and House & Garden.

]]>Lafayette Park Renovationhttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation/
Tue, 21 May 2013 16:46:27 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=46492Continue reading →]]>In the final push toward completion of the renovation of Lafayette Park we have found that there are three commemorative plaques for which we do not have homes: Hurbert and Elsie Lui; Martha Joy Edstrom; Shirley R. Mooser. If you know the history behind one of these plaques, or would like to reclaim one, please email me at Mary.Hobson@sfgov.org.

Sponsoring a commemorative bench is a great way to support our parks. Information on this program is available at www.sfparksalliance.org/the-alliance/philanthropy/commemorative-benches.

]]>Lafayette Park Renovation Updatehttps://sfrecpark.org/46215/
Fri, 03 May 2013 20:13:52 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=46215Project Progress The overall project is nearing completion with approximately 90% of the project scope performed. Progress over the past few weeks has focused primarily on the custom climbing structures in the children’s play area, the walls and paths around the courts, and the off-leash dog play area. The first … Continue reading →]]>

Project Progress

The overall project is nearing completion with approximately 90% of the project scope performed. Progress over the past few weeks has focused primarily on the custom climbing structures in the children’s play area, the walls and paths around the courts, and the off-leash dog play area. The first three weeks of May will see the majority of the playground work completed and the last of the concrete paths and roadways poured. Work is bound to intensify during the end of the month when crews will be scrambling to put the finishing touches on all areas of the park in anticipation of an early June opening.

In order to achieve the earliest opening date possible, the general contractor will dedicate all their resources in May to finishing the work within the park. After the park opening, through July and into early August, work will continue on the repairs to the perimeter retaining wall, entry stairs, public sidewalks and street trees. In addition, once the new off-leash dog play area is reopened to the public, the area of the park currently being used as a temporary DPA will be closed. The area, located along Laguna Street between Washington and Clay Streets, will receive new sod and will remain closed for 1 – 2 months to allow time for the new grass to become established.

Update on Park Opening

The anticipated re-opening date for Lafayette Park is Saturday, June 8. The Recreation and Parks Department and the Friends of Lafayette Park are planning a fun community event to mark this major milestone. Details will be posted here, and at the park site, as soon as they are available.

Picnic Area Permits

I have received many calls and emails from park neighbors who are interested in reserving picnic areas in Lafayette Park for their summer activities. This is coordinated through the Recreation and Parks Department’s Permits and Reservations Division. To insure that all permits can be honored without exception, it is standard protocol to suspend issuance of any permits during the period a park is closed to the public. While picnic areas will be ready and available for use beginning on the first day the park is open, it does not look like reservations for future use-permits will be taken for at least several more weeks and possibly not until the first day the park is open. I will continue to monitor the situation and will report here the moment I know when the Department will begin to accept reservations

Lafayette Park’s Dog Play Area under Construction

]]>Lafayette Park Renovation Project Updatehttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation-project-update-2/
Mon, 11 Mar 2013 17:02:57 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=45270Street tree work is scheduled to begin this week and is estimated to take up to 2 weeks to complete. Ailing trees located along Washington Street will be removed, and young gingko trees will be planted in their place. Empty tree wells along the length of the block will also … Continue reading →]]>

Street tree work is scheduled to begin this week and is estimated to take up to 2 weeks to complete. Ailing trees located along Washington Street will be removed, and young gingko trees will be planted in their place. Empty tree wells along the length of the block will also receive new trees. The two ailing trees on Gough near Sacramento will be replaced with young brisbane-box trees. This work, along with ongoing sidewalk repair work will mean intermittent disruption to street parking access. We apologize for the inconvenience.

]]>Lafayette Park Renovation Updatehttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation-update/
Tue, 29 Jan 2013 17:49:28 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=43126Continue reading →]]>Bauman Landscape Construction is working diligently toward a late spring park opening. Recent dry weather has been instrumental in keeping us on schedule. Large sections of the landscape are now in place, allowing plenty of time for plants to grow. Installation of the sewer tie-ins will mean the site drainage system is now fully functional. In February work crews will shift their focus to the construction of the children’s play area.

Last weekend a section of fence was vandalized allowing individuals to enter the park. While sections of the park landscape may appear complete, I must stress that this is still an active construction zone. It is important that the perimeter fence be maintained to provide a safety buffer between the public and the construction activities that will be going on within its boundary. Just because a fence section is down, or you don’t see construction activities going on at the moment, it does not mean it is safe to enter the site. In addition, while the new lawn and new plantings may appear lush, they are still struggling to become established. It takes at least 3 months for sod to take root. People and dogs walking and laying on the lawn prematurely are extremely destructive and could ultimately result in its failure to thrive (potentially delaying the park opening).

If you witness acts of vandalism to the construction fence, or see people inside the construction zone, please contact Park Patrol at (415) 242-6390.

To report breaks in the fence, please call (415) 447-4800.

Please help keep Lafayette Park safe.

]]>LAFAYETTE PARK RENOVATION PROJECT UPDATEhttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation-project-update/
Sat, 15 Dec 2012 00:12:50 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=42793Project Progress Truck loads of new trees and plants, as well as what looks to be miles of sod, arrived this week transforming sections of the park into a green oasis almost overnight. Crews have been busy planting all week. With the exception of the dog play area, meadow, and … Continue reading →]]>

Project Progress

Truck loads of new trees and plants, as well as what looks to be miles of sod, arrived this week transforming sections of the park into a green oasis almost overnight. Crews have been busy planting all week. With the exception of the dog play area, meadow, and the area north of the children’s play area, all the turf has been set and the majority of trees are planted. Next week workers will tackle the ornamental beds along Sacramento and Washington Streets.

Over the course of the next several weeks work will continue on the new tennis court retaining walls and the renovation of the existing structures. The eastern fence of the Laguna DPA will be moved slightly westward to allow concrete trucks to pour the new path adjacent to the children’s play area, and the long anticipated assembly of the custom designed stone play structures will begin soon.

Shaw Pipeline is currently at work installing the lateral lines that run beneath the sidewalk and street connecting the park drainage and sewer lines to the City sewer system. This work involves connections at multiple points around the park’s perimeter, requiring restricted parking at several different locations. The work is being expedited at all locations so that the new system can be up and working before the next big rain. Work is expected to be substantially complete within the next seven days. No-parking signs will be removed as soon as work in a given location is completed. We apologize for any inconvenience this work may cause you.

]]>Lafayette Park Renovation Project Updatehttps://sfrecpark.org/project-update-3/
Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:43:24 +0000http://sfrecpark.org/?p=40205Appeal Update As previously reported, the Board of Appeals ruled in favor of the Department, 3-0, denying the appeal of our building permit for the maintenance complex. The denial of this appeal is now final and our permit has been reinstated. Thank you to everyone who has supported us during … Continue reading →]]>

Appeal Update

As previously reported, the Board of Appeals ruled in favor of the Department, 3-0, denying the appeal of our building permit for the maintenance complex. The denial of this appeal is now final and our permit has been reinstated. Thank you to everyone who has supported us during this process,

Project Progress

Rain is slowing, but not stopping, our progress. We are happy to report that the project remains on track for a spring completion (assuming seasonal rains are normal).

The irrigation system and other subsurface systems are in place and finish grading of large areas of the park have been completed. The concrete paths along the perimeter of the park are in place, and the court retaining walls and ADA path leading up to the meadow are being formed and poured. The foundations for the playground “gorge” are in place and the placing of the rock will begin next week.

The subsurface drainage systems within the park are in place, and the final step of installing the lateral lines under the sidewalk and street to tie into the City sewer line will be performed in the coming weeks. Neighbors should expect some disruptions to traffic and access to parking while this street work is being performed. We apologize for this inconvenience. Until the tie-in is in place some storm water runoff from the construction site will likely occur when we experience intense rainfall. The Contractor has installed storm water control swaddles and hay bales at strategic locations around the site to control water runoff onto the sidewalks and to prevent erosion. Please call (415) 447-4800 if you notice unusual amounts of water flowing over the perimeter walls or down the stairs toward the street.

The new trees and literally thousands of new plants to be planted as part of the renovation project will begin arriving on site as early as next week. I have received several calls regarding the rather sad appearance of the recently replanted pears in the southeast quadrant of the park. According to our arborist, it is not unusual for trees to go into shock and drop their leaves when they are moved or experience a significant change in their environment. The current plan is to continue to care for these trees and then reevaluate them in the spring. We are optimistic that they will regenerate once they have had some time to become established. We are happy to report that the lovely plum (#39) near the meadow was successfully moved about 20 feet to the northeast and appears to be doing just great in its new location.

The Board of Appeals ruled in favor of the Department, 3-0, denying the appeal of our building permit for the maintenance complex. Thank you to everyone who has supported us during this process, with a special thanks to those who came out to the hearing last night. Unfortunately, the process has not yet fully run its course. New information, as it becomes available, will be posted here.

Project Progress

Work is moving forward at a steady pace. Last week Temporary Dog Play Area No. 2 was reopened, followed quickly by the closure of Play Area No. 1. The redwood mulch seems to be keeping the area reasonably dry and usable for our furry friends. The natural boulders to be used to construct the custom designed play features in the children’s play area also arrived on site last week. These beautiful stones are a gift to the project from the Friends of Lafayette Park. And finally, last week we saw the first activation of portions of the site’s new irrigation system. In the short term, the irrigation system will be operated manually to water the existing landscaping and to control dust on the site.

Unfortunately this week we saw the first major rain storm of the season. Muddy conditions make it impossible for the large equipment to navigate safely on the site, so progress made this week has been minimal. Our hopes for a dry winter season are beginning to fade.

As reported last month, a second appeal of a Lafayette Park Renovation Project building permit was filed with the Board of Appeals. This latest appeal suspends Permit 1610, which covers the RPD operation’s maintenance complex (cargo container pad and trellis enclosure). The Board of Appeals hearing date has been set for Wednesday, October 24, at 5 PM in City Hall Room 416. An important component of these hearings is public testimony, so if you support this project we would really appreciate hearing from you.

The latest, and I believe realistic, forecast for the reopening of DPA #2 is Monday, October 15. All the required inspections have been performed and the trenches have now been backfilled. Two large truck-loads of mulch will be delivered to the site on Friday and Monday. As soon as the mulch is spread the DPA will be reopened for dog play.

As early as next day, the Contractor will take steps to close DPA #1 (fronting Washington) for construction work. Work in this area will consist of setting subsurface drain lines and irrigation lines. In addition, the section of path and sidewalk at the Washington/Octavia Street entrance will be paved. The scope of this work in this DPA is significantly less than what was just performed in DPA #2, so we believe it will be completed much more quickly.

Construction Progress

Working is moving along quickly now. New concrete paths are appearing around the perimeter of the park. The low seat walls and benches have been poured and the Contractor has started on the foundation work in the children’s play area. Work on the ADA path that winds around the tennis courts will begin next week.

The natural boulders which will be used in the children’s play area will be delivered to the project site on October 11 and 12. The rock will arrive on three large flat-bed trucks. The trucks will be parked on Sacramento Street, where the boulders will be off-loaded and hauled by forklift onto the site through the Sacramento/Octavia Street park entrance. The availability of parking along Sacramento will be impacted due to the delivery. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.

We are happy to report that last night the Board of Appeals voted unanimously to deny the appellant’s request to re-hear her appeal of our building permit no. 0448 (restroom and site improvements). This means that we should see the suspension lifted and work starting up again as early as tomorrow. Watch for major progress around the playground area over the next few weeks.

Temporary Dog Play Area Update

The latest forecast for the reopening of DPA #2 is October 12. Due to the extensive trenching that was performed, the area is now predominately dirt. General consensus from the landscape design team is that any attempt to lay new sod in the area now would be futile. The standard establishment time for sod is 2-3 months. Given that only 2-3 weeks could be devoted to establishment, coupled with the heavy use the area gets, we believe sod will not survive. Our current plan of action is to provide a layer of fine mulch to create a clean cushion that can absorb water and keep dust down (see photo below). Our hope is that this treatment, coupled with a new (but still manual) irrigation system, will make using the temporary DPA more pleasant.

On Monday afternoon another appeal of a Lafayette Park Renovation Project building permit was filed with the Board of Appeals. This latest appeal suspends Permit 1610, which covers the RPD operation’s maintenance complex (cargo container pad and trellis enclosure). This new appeal will follow essentially the same process as the appeal filed against Permit 0448. The Board of Appeals hearing date has been set for Wednesday, October 24, at 5 PM in City Hall Room 416.

It is likely we will see a delay to project completion as a result of the holds placed on the permits. We have not been able to perform critical concrete work during the contract’s dry-weather window. This type of work moves slowly in the wet season, so complete schedule recovery at this point looks unlikely. We do not know currently the full extent of the delays. We will inform stakeholders of them as soon as they are clear. Be assured that the Contractor and project team will investigate all possible avenues to expedite the work in order to deliver this project to the Lafayette Park community as quickly as possible.

The project appellant filed a request for a rehearing of her appeal of building permit 0448 late Tuesday. What this means is that we remain on hold for an additional two weeks while we wait to appear before the Board of Appeals again on September 19. At the Sept 19 meeting the Board will consider whether to grant the appellant’s request for another hearing on the merits of building permit 0448. More details on the rehearing request process will be posted here as we prepare for this next step in the process.

Progress of the Work

Last week the Contractor began demolition work in the area of the summit, removing asphalt paths and trees and performing rough grading of the new paths. Seat walls in the area of the picnic area and along the ADA path were poured and form-work for the pathways was set. Work continues on the installation of subsurface drainage and irrigation lines across the site. Work in DPA #2 is on hold pending scheduling of the PG&E service line. Our best estimate at this time is that DPA #2 will reopen in two weeks.

]]>Construction Update – August 23https://sfrecpark.org/construction-update-august-23/
Thu, 23 Aug 2012 21:32:56 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5197Continue reading →]]>APPEAL OF THE BUILDING PERMIT. The Board of Appeals hearing regarding the Lafayette Park building permits occurred last night. SF Rec and Park prevailed with the Board unanimously voting to deny the appeal and uphold our permit. We would like to thank the Friends of Lafayette Park and all the park supporters who came out to speak in support for the project, and those who sent emails in support. However, we have learned that the appellant now has 10 days to request a re-hearing. During this period our permit remains on suspension. We should have more news to report after Labor Day weekend.

CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: The bird nesting season has come to a close, we have two all-clear nesting surveys on record, and we have completed the appeal process for our street tree removal permit. This means it is time to start work in the northeast quadrant of the park. The section of park accessible from Gough and Washington will be closed beginning 8/27. Access to the area of the park will give our Contractor more work to do, which is important as we wait patiently for our appealed permit to be reinstated. Regretfully, DPA #2 is still not ready to be reopened, as we are waiting for PG&E to install a new electrical service off Laguna. In the mean time, we have asked our project team to see if they can expand DPA #1 until DPA #2 is ready to reopen. Again, we apologize for the inconvenience. We are trying our best to solve problems as they arise.

]]>Appeal Hearing Updatehttps://sfrecpark.org/appeal-hearing-update/
Wed, 22 Aug 2012 18:28:37 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5193Continue reading →]]>Upon review of the agenda for tonight’s Board of Appeals Hearing, I see that the Lafayette Park permit appeal will be the last item heard, and by my estimation we will not possibly be up to the podium any earlier than 6 PM. In other words, no need to rush. Take your time. We value and appreciate everyone’s time and don’t want to waste it. I hope to see you tonight.
]]>Board of Appeals Hearing Tomorrow (8/22)https://sfrecpark.org/board-of-appeals-hearing-tomorrow-822/
Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:25:06 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5190Continue reading →]]>Thank you so much for your continued support and interest in the Lafayette Park Capital Project. I have received many emails of support and included them in our Appeals Respondent’s Brief to the Board of Appeals. As you may know, the Board of Appeals Hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 22, 5:00 PM in City Hall, Room 416. Members of the public are be able to provide comment and we encourage you to come down and support the project tomorrow.
]]>Construction Update: August 2https://sfrecpark.org/construction-update-august-2/
Fri, 03 Aug 2012 02:41:19 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5089Continue reading →]]>Community Briefing. There was a great turn out for Wednesday’s briefing held at CPMC. I hope everyone found it informative. Special thanks to Lizzy, Toks, John Leffingwell from HortScience and Josiah Clark who were on hand to answer questions. One of the strongest messages we took away from last night was your concern over the level of watering of the trees and other park landscaping to be retained. This message has already been passed on to Bauman Construction and I will be following up personally on their efforts to keep things as green as possible. Lizzy, or Landscape Architect, will also be monitoring the condition of the trees and plants and directing the crews to increase watering or take other protective measures whenever she sees a tree or plant that she feels is in need.

Board of Appeals Hearing. The Board of Appeals Hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, August 22, 5:00 PM in City Hall, Room 416. Members of the public will be able to provide comment and we encourage you to come down and support the project. Also, letters and emails of support are very important. Any emails or letters which I receive between now and August 15 will be submitted to the Board for their consideration as an attachment to the Department’s written brief. If you would like to submit a letter or email to support us in our effort to move this project forward, please address them to: Cristina Garcia, 30 Van Ness Ave. 5th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94102, Cristina.Garcia@sfgov.org. I will be providing more information on the hearing as it becomes available.

Construction Progress. Unfortunately work in DPA #2 is moving more slowly than expected. The area will remain closed for at least the next week. We will keep you posted on when we expect to be able to reopen the area of public use. And as reported at the briefing, we expect crews will begin working in the northeast quadrant of the park before too long. Our intent is to hold off until DPA #2 is completed. Once we have a firm start date we will notify you through this blog and through park postings. We appreciate your patience.

]]>Construction Progress – Week 6https://sfrecpark.org/construction-progress-week-6/
Sat, 28 Jul 2012 00:14:54 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5083Continue reading →]]>TREE UPDATE: During the planning phase for this project RPD hired HortScience, Inc., a well respected arborist, to perform an assessment of all the park trees and street trees in and around Lafayette Park. The arborist’s report was used to develop a tree removal plan to be implemented through the renovation project. The removal plan addresses trees that have been identified as being in poor health and at risk of failing, as well as those trees that will need to be either removed or relocated due to impacts of the construction project. A copy of the original arborist’s assessment report is available on the project website.

Since construction began I have received may inquires from park users as to the need for the removal of what appears to be a large number of healthy trees. In response, RPD asked our consultant arborist and landscape architect to revisit the tree removal plan, and reevaluate the trees designated for removal with the objective of retaining trees whenever feasible and appropriate. We have now received their final recommendations. A copy of the full assessment and a key plan will be available on the website as soon as our webmaster returns from vacation. Below is a summary of the action plan.

Trees with Trunk Diameters >= 6”

No of Existing Trees on Site: 225

No of Trees to be removed: 44

(4) Construction Impact

(40) Compromised Health

No. of Trees to be transplanted: 3

How does this new plan deviate from the original plan?

Trees with Trunk Diameters >= 6”

No. of Trees Converted to from Remove to Preservation Status: 15

(3) To be transplanted

(3) Retained through Design Modifications

(9) Arborist has downgraded them to moderate risk, as they would fall outside primary program/work zones

What does the new plan mean for the most beloved trees?

#39, the Plum tree located just north of the tennis courts, will be transplanted. This tree was originally designated to be removed due to its proximity to the new ADA path serving the lawn area. The project team has determined that rerouting of the path, which is required by code, would be very complex and would result in other undesirable impacts to the park. This tree is larger than typically transplanted, but upon further consultation with the arborist, we believe that it is healthy and of a strong species and therefore is a good candidate for relocation. The tree will be boxed and then replanted in a nearby location.

#99, a large Eucalyptus located at the summit, will be retained through design changes. This tree was originally designated to be removed due to its proximity to the new maintenance complex. The design team has determined that the complex may be moved 7 ft west and still maintain the required access, resulting in the preservation of tree #99.

#239, the large Cypress located near the Washington and Laguna Street stairs, will not be removed. While the tree is still considered to be a poor candidate for preservation, the arborist’s new recommendation is to perform additional pruning, and then continue to monitor it for signs of potential failure.

CONSTRUCTION PROGRESS: As you may already know, the construction permit for this project was appealed to the Board of Appeals and is now suspended pending a hearing scheduled for August 22. Though this is a setback, it is not the end of the world. This permit is one of three building permits needed for this project, and a fair amount of the scope of work is exempt from permitting all together. RPD has met with representatives from the Department of Building Inspection and the Contractor and developed an action plan that enables some work to continue while the appeal works its way through the process. You will see workers on site performing work between now and August 22. At this point we do not know the extent to which this will impact the overall scheduled completion date. However, I want to assure everyone that RPD and Bauman Landscape Construction are committed to working together to complete the project as quickly as possible so that we can reopen the park for everyone’s enjoyment. I will keep you updated as more information becomes available.

]]>Construction Phase Community Briefing, Wednesday August 1https://sfrecpark.org/construction-phase-community-briefing-wednesday-august-1/
Thu, 26 Jul 2012 00:29:40 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5075Continue reading →]]>Park neighbors, visitors and other interested stakeholders are invited to attend a special meeting on Wednesday, August 1st, during which project staff will provide an update on the progress of the work as well as an overview of what is to come. Details are provided below. We hope to see you there.

Lafayette Park Renovation, Community Briefing

Wednesday, August 1 – 5:30 PM

California Pacific Medical Center, the Enright Room

2333 Buchanan Street, San Francisco

]]>Construction Progress – Week 5https://sfrecpark.org/construction-progress-week-5/
Fri, 20 Jul 2012 16:45:20 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5062Continue reading →]]>Dear DPA Users: For those of you who may not have noticed the signs posted (I know there are a lot of them), I wanted to give you a heads up that we will be closing Temporary Dog Play Area #2 for construction beginning next week. DPA #2 is the area of grass that runs along Laguna Street. DPA #1, the grass area along Washington Street, will remain open and available for your use. This closure is anticipated to take no more than two weeks. During that time our Contractor will be installing subsurface drainage pipes, a new water line, and irrigation lines. This work is being performed early in preparation for a new water service connection on Laguna Street which will feed the park’s new irrigation system. Our goal is to get this new service up and running as quickly as possible so that we can reactivate the irrigation system. When this current work in DPA #2 is complete the Contractor will back-fill the trenches and reopen the area for your use. When it reopens you will see areas of bare dirt where the trenching occurred.

Construction Update

Work continues to progress. The crews are working on the picnic area and the tennis courts. Form work for the seat walls is now in place. We reinstalled the wind screens along the fences that line the DPAs to control dust, so if you want to see the action just take a stroll up to the summit for a bird’s eye view.

Consulting Ecologist, Josiah Clark, performed a follow-up survey of the park on July 3 and report that he found no active nests. However, many young birds, including the Red-tailed Hawks, were spotted in the area. The presence of no active nests clears the way for work to begin in all areas of the park. Josiah will continue to be available to provide assistance as the project moves forward.

Tree Removal Update:

The consulting Arborist and Landscape Architect have completed their follow-up assessment and have developed an action plan to be used moving forward. We will be scheduling a meeting soon to brief the community on the action plan. Information on the meeting time and location will be posted on the project site and on this blog as soon as it is available.

Construction Activities:

All the asphalt paths in the construction zone have been removed and site work around the play area is moving forward. Form-work for the seat walls that circle the new picnic area is now in place and the space is beginning to take shape. Demolition of below-grade utilities is ongoing.

]]>Hazardous tree removal at Lafayette Parkhttps://sfrecpark.org/hazardous-tree-removal-at-lafayette-park/
Wed, 04 Jul 2012 00:27:53 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5031Continue reading →]]>In order to ensure the safety of construction site workers and the public, a hazardous tree is scheduled to be removed immediately at Lafayette Park. This tree has also been identified as unsafe in the Lafayette Tree Assessment (Tree #40) and has been recommended for removal due to the tree’s overall poor condition. In addition, this tree is located outside of the protected bird nesting zone. Our consulting nesting expert and biologist has surveyed the tree and its surrounding area, and provided RPD with permission to remove the tree immediately. Other hazardous trees that have been identified for removal based on the Tree Assessment are scheduled to be removed after mid July, 2012.

To ensure your safety and safety of our workers, please keep out the active construction area. Thank you for your patience and cooperation. We look forward to celebrating the grand opening of Lafayette Park with you in 2013.

]]>Notice of Temporary Closure of DPA #2 – Saturday, July 7 (7:00am-Noon)https://sfrecpark.org/notice-of-temporary-closure-of-dpa-2-saturday-july-7-700am-noon/
Fri, 29 Jun 2012 18:49:45 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5022Continue reading →]]>Dear Park Users: Please be advised that off-leash DPA #2 (grass area that stretches along Laguna Street) will be closed to dog play on Saturday, July 7th from 7 AM to Noon. This area will be used to stage a rest stop for walkers taking part in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. Access to DPA #1 (grass area that stretches along Washington Street) will be open for dog walking during the event. Event planners anticipate that they will be broken down and moved out no later than 12:00 PM, after which DPA #2 will reopen to off-leash dog play. We apologize for this inconvenience, and appreciate your patience.
]]>Construction Progress and Other Items – Week 2https://sfrecpark.org/construction-progress-and-other-items-week-2/
Thu, 28 Jun 2012 01:18:48 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=5009Continue reading →]]>Tree Removal Update

In response to the many messages we have received regarding the extent of tree removal planned for this project, we have asked our consultant arborist, Jim Clark, and Landscape Architect, Lizzy Hirsch, review the tree removal and planting plan and make recommendations on which trees could be retained. The completed their assessment this week and expect their final recommendations next week. RPD will be issuing an official report detailing the results of their investigation, and our action plan to address the issue of tree removal within the park boundaries. This should be available on the project webpage during the week of July 9.

Street tree removal and planting is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Urban Forestry. DPW BUF is in the process of re-evaluating the approved street tree removal permit associated with the Lafayette Park renovation project. RPD will follow their lead as to what, if any, street tree planting and removal is ultimately deemed best for the trees boarding the park along Laguna, Washington and Gough Streets.

Nesting Birds Update

Consulting Biologist, Josiah Clark, reported that our resident Red Tailed Hawk young successfully fledged on Wednesday 6/20. We wish them luck in their pursuit of gophers. Josiah also gave the thumbs up for the removal of trees and shrubs around the tennis courts. No active song bird nests were found in this area during his site walk last week. Mr. Clark will continue to be on-call through the nesting season to assist us visiting every few weeks, or when major construction activities are scheduled to begin.

Watering Schedule

In the absence of an operating irrigation system, General Contractor, Bauman Landscape Construction, will be watering the site as-needed using a watering truck. Finding a good time to water the temporary dog play areas has been problematic due to its heavy use. Please spread the word that watering of the dog play areas will be performed each Wednesday morning between 6 and 7 AM. The DPA will be officially closed during that time, and people who elect to enter during that time may find themselves unceremoniously soaked. Anyone in need of a quick dog wash?

We have received many calls from park users concerned about the watering of the park plants and trees. We realize that the site looks very dry, but this is part of the process. 95% of the site landscape, including all the turf, is scheduled to be removed and replaced with new planting materials. Allowing the existing vegetation to dry out has many advantages in both the long and short term. Bauman is an experienced contractor with extensive experience in park landscape construction. They have walked the site with our project landscape architect and are well aware of the extent of plants and trees to be retained, and their on-going maintenance needs. Per the terms of contract, Bauman is required to take whatever measures are appropriate to care for the Lafayette Park site during the construction process.

Trash Collection

The unscheduled reopening of the northeast quadrant of the park has left us unprepared to handle some of the day to day park operation issues. Unfortunately the designated Recology garbage handling and pick-up station falls within the area of active construction and park staff is not equipped to handle all this trash themselves. Bauman Landscape Construction has stepped up and started to collected and moved trash to the sidewalk for collection. However, this is a temporary solution. For the long-term, RPD is in the process of securing and placing sidewalk cans near the DPA and at other key location near active park entrances. We are asking that park users be conscientious and take their trash with them when they leave the park, depositing it at home or into a street can.

Reporting Vandals and Trespassers

Over the weekend our construction site was struck by a gang of vandals and would-be thieves. Overnight someone attempted to enter the locked construction trailer, breaking windows and door locks. Luckily nothing was stolen. They tampered with the large construction equipment, damaged trees and vandalized construction materials. This is not the first incident of people breaking into the site after hours, but it is the most destructive. Bauman is taking their own measures to secure the site, but RPD is looking for your help in stopping this type of illegal activity. Sections of dust screen have been removed along the temporary dpa to allow users a clear view into the work site. DPA users and neighbors’ whose widows face directly onto the site are our best defense.

If you witness acts of vandalism occurring in or around the project site, or see suspicious people inside the construction zone, please contact Park Patrol at 242-6390 or SFPD dispatch at 553-0123. Please help keep Lafayette Park safe for all of us.

Construction Activities

Construction is moving full steam ahead. The Contractor has completed demolition of the children’s playground and is currently working on demolition of the adjacent asphalts paths. The fencing in the tennis courts were removed and selective demo of sub-surface utilities is in progress. Next week we will see a special crew on site performing hazardous materials abatement in the restroom building and gardener’s shed.

]]>Construction Progress – Week 1https://sfrecpark.org/construction-progress-week-1/
Thu, 21 Jun 2012 21:43:06 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=4975Continue reading →]]>After a few bumps and bruises construction is underway out at Lafayette Park. Bauman Landscape Construction arrived on-site on Monday, June 4 and began installing fencing and staging equipment. By Friday the site was closed to the public with the exception of the 33,000 SF temporary dog play area located at the corner Washington and Laguna Streets. Work began in earnest this week as demolition crews began work around the play area.

The appearance of fences and tree removal notices created an instant response from concerned neighbors and park users responding to the lack of access to the park and what some perceive to be questionable changes to their beloved park. I would like to assure everyone that we take your concerns seriously and that I am following up on each issue raised during the past two weeks. I will be provided more details regarding our plans for tree removal, habitat protection, on-going park access and a variety of other concerns soon. Your patience is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely, Mary Hobson, Project Manager

Demolition of paths and roads.

]]>Lafayette Park Renovation – Construction Starts June 4https://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation-construction-starts-june-4/
Fri, 01 Jun 2012 23:43:37 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=4918Continue reading →]]>Construction work is scheduled to begin at Lafayette Park during the week of June 4. Fencing may arrive as early as Monday. I know everyone will be sad to see the park close for the 10 month construction period, but I am sure it will have been worth the wait when we cut that ribbon in April 2013. Throughout the construction process, progress photos and updates will be posted here.

FYI. A small area for dog walking will remain open for public use throughout the project. This area will be located near the corner of Laguna Street and Washington Street. The exact location and size may change to allow work to be performed in all areas before the contract is complete.

While Lafayette is closed, those seeking natural recreation should check out Alta Plaza Park, located 4 blocks west of Lafayette Park at Washington Street and Steiner Street.

PARK RENOVATION: Restoration of Lafayette Park is about to begin. Thanks to your support of the 2008 Clean & Safe Neighborhood Parks Bond, Lafayette Park will soon be even more beautiful, more inviting and more fun.

PRE-CONSTRUCTION COMMUNITY MEETING: Please join us for a brief presentation on the upcoming renovation of Lafayette Park. At this meeting the project team will provide information on the implementation of the construction work, which is scheduled to begin in May.

]]>Construction Contract Awarded for Lafayette Park Renovationhttps://sfrecpark.org/construction-contract-awarded-for-lafayette-park-renovation/
Thu, 15 Mar 2012 23:07:07 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=4641Continue reading →]]>The Recreation and Park Commission took action today to award the construction contract for the Lafayette Park Renovation project to Bauman Landscape and Construction. Bauman has successfully delivered a number of park renovation projects, including the lovely Sue Bierman Park and the soon to be unveiled Helen Diller Playground in Mission Dolores Park. RPD welcomes Bauman to the Lafayette project team, and look forward to working with them to deliver this project with equal success.

In anticipation of work beginning, a pre-construction community meeting will be held to inform neighbors and park users of what to expect during the construction implementation phase of the project. Those interested, should mark their calendars for Thursday, May 3. More details to come.

]]>Lafayette Park Renovation Is Moving Forwardhttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation-is-moving-forward/
Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:29:58 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=4220Continue reading →]]>The Lafayette Park Renovation project has taken a major step forward. The project was advertised for bids on January 21. During the coming months, the City will follow a slow but steady course through the Contractor selection, approval and certification process. If all goes smoothly, you should see construction fences going up at Lafayette Park as early as May 2012. A pre-construction Community Meeting will be held approximately one month before the work begins. At that time, up-to-date information on the construction process and the plan for limited public access during the 10-month construction duration will be available. Please watch this site for news and up-dates as this exciting project moves along.
]]>Lafayette Park Renovation Newshttps://sfrecpark.org/lafayette-park-renovation-news/
Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:38:00 +0000http://sfrpd.org/wp-dev/?p=4104Mary A. Hobson, Capital Project Manager